Zynga snags Microsoft exec Don Mattrick

Microsoft exec Don Mattrick, who lead Microsoft’s entertainment division, was named to lead social game maker Zynga. The announcement, sent by email and posted online, names Mattrick as the company’s chief executive officer and a member of the board of directors.

Here’s the release, courtesy Zynga:

Zynga Inc., a leading provider of social game services, today announced that the Company has appointed Don Mattrick as Chief Executive Officer and a member of the Board of Directors, effective July 8, 2013. Mattrick has been at the forefront of the industry and brings more than 30 years of executive experience developing, building and managing profitable entertainment businesses. Mark Pincus, Zynga’s founding chief executive officer, remains Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Product Officer of the Company.

“Don is unique in the game business,” said Mark Pincus, Founder, Chairman and Chief Product Officer. “He can execute in multiple domains — hardware, software and network, and he’s been the person responsible for game franchises like ‘Need for Speed,’ ‘FIFA’ and ‘The Sims.’ He’s one of the top executives in the overall entertainment business and he’s a great coach who has inspired people to do their best work and build strong, productive teams. He deeply understands the value of a network and the importance of creating lifelong consumer relationships.
He turned Xbox into the world’s largest console-gaming network, growing its installed base from 10 to 80 million and transformed that business from deep losses to substantial profits. And he has grown the Xbox Live player network from 6 to 50 million active members in 41 countries.
Going forward, I’ll continue in my role as Chairman and Chief Product Officer. I’m excited to partner with Don and the rest of our team to return Zynga to its leadership role in inventing and growing Play as a core human experience.”

M4d Ski11z’s take: I got a chance to meet and talk with Don. He’s a passionate leader and appears personable. However, he’s a business man. There’s is no doubt Zynga needed a serious jumpstart and letting Mattrick lead is an interesting choice.

The bigger question is where does this leave Microsoft? Now, I believe Microsoft can push forward with a new leader who can take the helm and make changes that will benefit the company. What are a few changes coming soon? I foresee:

1. $399 Xbox One WITHOUT the new Kinect
2. A strong push for the Kinect but not at the expense of sales.
3. A few more Xbox One exclusives announced between now and September.

It’s going to be an interesting 2013 for we gamers.
What’s your take? Will the Xbox One undergo more revisions?